The Honda Accord VIII 2.2 i-DTEC (150 hp) represents a significant entry in the eighth generation of Honda’s globally successful Accord line. Produced between 2008 and 2011, this variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines held a substantial share of the mid-size sedan segment. It occupied a middle ground within the Accord VIII range, offering a balance between fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and a more accessible price point compared to the petrol-powered models or higher-specification diesel trims. This model was built upon the Honda Accord platform (often referred to as the 8th generation Accord), and was designed to compete with rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Toyota Avensis.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord VIII |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i-DTEC (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N22B1 |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 467 l (16.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4726 mm (186.06 in) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2705 mm (106.5 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.98 m (36.02 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Accord VIII 2.2 i-DTEC is the N22B1 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine’s 16.3:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The N22B1 engine was known for its relatively quiet operation for a diesel, a characteristic Honda engineers prioritized. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque, providing strong acceleration in everyday driving situations.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp 2.2 i-DTEC Accord offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, it provided ample power for highway cruising and overtaking. The 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, available from 2000 rpm, meant that strong acceleration was readily accessible without needing to rev the engine excessively. Compared to the 2.0-liter petrol versions, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving style. However, it lacked the responsiveness and higher revving nature of the petrol engines. Against higher-output diesel variants (if offered in specific markets), the 2.2 i-DTEC felt less powerful, but it compensated with lower running costs and a smoother, less stressed engine character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 i-DTEC typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD player with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a more advanced audio system. Safety features like ABS, front and side airbags, and electronic stability control were standard across the range. The interior design was functional and well-built, reflecting Honda’s reputation for quality. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clear instrumentation.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord VIII featured a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, making it well-suited for long journeys. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The steering was precise and well-weighted, offering a good level of driver feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Accord VIII 2.2 i-DTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of some of its rivals. Compared to the petrol-powered Accords, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who covered long distances. In terms of reliability, the N22B1 engine proved to be generally robust, although like any diesel, it required regular maintenance and the use of high-quality diesel fuel.
Legacy
The Honda Accord VIII 2.2 i-DTEC has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The N22B1 engine, when properly maintained, can withstand high mileage. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components such as the turbocharger and fuel injectors. Today, these Accords represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and reliable mid-size sedan. The combination of Honda’s build quality and the diesel engine’s efficiency continues to make this variant a popular choice among used car buyers.
